Chinese authorities have again launched a crackdown on fasting and religious practices by Islamic minorities, with Muslims around the world observing the holy month of Ramadan.
The restrictions are particularly enforced in the Muslim-majority Western province of Xinjiang, where Chinese authorities frequently stay at the homes of Muslim families to suppress religious activities, according to the Human Rights Watch and activists.
Amnesty International said in a report released late last week Chinese authorities view Ramadan fasting — along with other displays of religious affiliation including beards, headscarves, regular prayers and avoidance of alcohol — as a “sign of extremism”.
Chinese authorities also view organised religion as a threat to party loyalty while Mass surveillance and detentions have intensified over the past three years in Xinjiang.
